Kaohsiung, Taiwan: A Thriving Hub for Filipino OFWs and Global Workers

Why Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Is a Top Destination for Filipino Workers

You can find Filipinos on every continent of the world.

This popular saying rings true, especially when we consider that the Filipino population reached nearly 116.7 million in mid-2025 according to Worldometer. With their strong work ethic, high adaptability, and trustworthy nature, Filipinos have become a global workforce, present from the smallest islands to the largest cities around the world.

Among them is Taiwan, a small but economically powerful nation, where thousands of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) contribute their skills, earn better income, and support their families back home.

Why Filipinos Choose to Work Abroad

For many Filipinos, working abroad is a sacrifice made for a dream — a dream to build a better life. Whether it's constructing a family home, securing quality education for children, or simply providing financial stability, OFWs are often driven by deep family values and future goals.

As a former first-time OFW myself, working in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, I’ve experienced firsthand the realities, hardships and rewards of overseas work.

Taiwan: A Small Nation with a Big Economic Impact

At a glance, Taiwan may seem small — smaller than Luzon and almost the same size as the combined islands of Samar, Leyte, and Negros. But don’t let its size fool you.

Taiwan is an economic powerhouse:

• It’s the top producer of microchips and semiconductors globally.
• It plays a crucial role in computer hardware manufacturing.
• Taiwan’s government policies have nurtured a steady stream of economic growth.

For countries like the Philippines, Taiwan’s manufacturing boom is an opportunity. By sending skilled workers to meet Taiwan’s labor demands, the Philippines not only helps its workforce access better-paying jobs but also boosts the national economy through OFW remittances.

The OFW Ecosystem in Taiwan

Filipinos are not alone in Taiwan’s growing foreign labor sector. Alongside Pinoys, there are workers from:

• Vietnam
• Indonesia
• Malaysia
• Thailand

Taiwan also attracts many international students, especially in fields related to engineering, chemistry, and robotics.

Popular Cities with Economic Zones:

• Taipei
• Taichung
• Tainan
• Kaohsiung
• Taoyuan
• Hsinchu
• Chiayi

Each of these cities hosts processing and manufacturing zones, filled with electronics companies, factories, and tech firms.

Spotlight on Kaohsiung: A City That Feels Like Home

Why Kaohsiung?

Kaohsiung stands out as one of the most Filipino-friendly cities in Taiwan. Here’s why:

• Home to ASE Holdings, one of the largest private employer of Filipinos in Taiwan.
• A massive economic processing zone that houses dozens of manufacturing buildings.
• A vibrant Filipino community with areas dedicated to Pinoy stores, food, and services.

ASE Holdings: OFW Stronghold

ASE Group (Advanced Semiconductor Engineering) is one of the top employers in the area, particularly for Filipino women. With multiple facilities in Kaohsiung alone, ASE hires thousands of workers under stable contracts.

“Mabuhay” Village – The Filipino Corner in Kaohsiung

Outside the industrial zone lies a famous spot known simply as “Mabuhay.” For OFWs, it’s nothing short of heaven.

Here, you’ll find:

• Karinderya-style eateries
• Filipino grocery stores
• Gold and gadget shops
• Remittance and pautang centers
• KTV bar and relaxation

“Mabuhay” offers a slice of home, where Filipino workers can relax on weekends, send money to families, and enjoy their favorite dishes from back home.

Life in Kaohsiung: Safe, Organized, and Green

Aside from work, Kaohsiung provides a clean, safe, and vibrant environment:

• Transportation
  • Most workers use motorcycles, bicycles, or shuttle buses provided by companies.
  • Roads are well-structured with digital traffic lights and CCTV systems to monitor traffic and speeding violations.
• Parks and Recreation
  • Kaohsiung Metropolitan Park, Youchang Forest Park, Lantian Park
  • Basketball and tennis courts
  • Jogging and biking lanes
  • Zumba dancing areas
  • Quiet green spaces for relaxation
  • Beautiful scenery

These parks offer a much-needed break from the factory routine, giving OFWs a space to breathe, bond, and stay active.

Economic Ties: How Taiwan Helps the Philippines Grow

When OFWs send money home, it directly supports:

• Local businesses and retail
• Education for the next generation
• Construction and housing
• Savings and investments

Each remittance fuels economic activity in the Philippines. Taiwan’s need for foreign labor becomes a win-win, powering Taiwan’s factories while helping Filipino families build their dreams.

Final Thoughts

As a first-time OFW, my journey from the Philippines to Taiwan — specifically Kaohsiung — has opened my eyes to the power of hard work, the value of community, and the opportunities that await those who dare to leave home in pursuit of something better.

Kaohsiung may be a small part of the world map, but for thousands of OFWs, it’s a place of purpose, pride, and progress.

Mabuhay Overseas Filipino Workers!